MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Morning physical training has been beset with recent rains and frosty morning temperatures, but soggy fields and chilly breezes did not keep Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 from participating in Sports Day at Penny Lake and IronWorks Gym Friday.
The service members enjoyed a day of friendly competition with baseball, basketball and soccer games that pitted the squadron’s Motor Transportation, Air Operations, Engineer and Headquarters companies against one another. Each sport hosted a three-game single elimination tournament showcasing the Marines’ athletic prowess.
Gunnery Sgt. Victor M. Mancha, acting squadron sergeant major and San Antonio native, said Sports Day was a way for the squadron to do something special for its members during the holiday season, and many suggestions for activities were brought up by Marines during various boards.
“We wanted to give Marines an opportunity to build camaraderie through activities that they enjoy,” said Mancha. “As I sit on boards, I ask Marines what activities they would like to participate in that would improve the morale of the squadron. One of the things they told me was that they would like more unit functions.”
Sports Day gave athletes a chance to show off their skills, but some participants enjoyed the opportunity to try out a new sport.
“This is my first baseball game ever, so I’m just going with the flow,” said Sgt. Emilio Flores, MWSS-171 field radio operator and Pomona, Calif., native. “(Sports Day) is tight, especially for people who don’t usually play sports, because they have to participate.”
Even those not competing in Sports Day were able to get into the spirit of the event. Hoots and hollers filled the air as the spectators rallied behind their favorite company during Sports Day’s closing match-up at IronWorks Gym, which paired Engineers against Air Operations companies.
The game showed the squadron’s camaraderie and good sportsmanship, said Lance Cpl. Robert Kennedy, MWSS-171 engineer equipment operator and West Palm Beach, Fla., native. Both sides were equally supported and everyone had a good time.
Friday’s games provided the squadron not only a good workout, but reinforced unit cohesion as well, ensuring Sports Day as a yearly affair for MWSS-171.
“This is the first time, but based on the outcome it will be an annual event,” said 1st Lt. William J. Scarper, MWSS-171 supply officer and Chesapeake, Va., native. “It gives them a chance to get out of work and show their stuff.”
Overall, Mancha feels that the day was a success, and he looks forward to future Sports Day outings.
“I think it was definitely positive,” said Mancha. “The consensus was they had fun, they enjoyed themselves and they want to see more of these types of events. It was very good for morale.”